Accused Murderer Appears in Portsmouth Municipal Court
Samuel Ray Altman, age 40, of 186 Sedan Crabtree in Lucasville, OH, has been charged with the murder of 21-year-old Dakota Paul Lewis Watkins.
SCDN first reported the story as it unfolded on Friday, June 4th.
Today in court, Altman appeared before Judge Steven L. Mowery. A court arraignment has not yet taken place because this is a felony case. During the hearing, the case was established on record, the bond was set, and a preliminary hearing was scheduled.
Joe Edwards has been retained to represent Altman. Edwards stated in the hearing that he had not yet met Altman. He did, however, mention that he planned to meet with him later today.
As we reported on Friday, Altman called 911 after shooting Watkins and explained why he had done so.
As the judge addressed the courtroom, he inquired whether there were any representatives or family members present for Dakota Watkins. Hearing no response, the bailiff inquired in the hallway if any family members were outside the courtroom. There was no reply.
The next hearing will take place on Thursday, June 17th, before Judge Russell D. Kegley.
